BEAN AND HAM HOCK SOUP

Elements:

• 1 pound dried navy beans
• 1 ham hock (or ham bone)
• 1 giant onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups rooster or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to style
• Chopped contemporary parsley for garnish (optionally available)

Directions:

1. Put together the Beans:
   • Rinse the dried navy beans in chilly water and take away any particles or stones. Place the beans in a big bowl, cowl with water, and soak them in a single day. Drain and rinse the soaked beans earlier than utilizing.
2. Sauté Greens:
   • In a big soup pot, warmth a little bit of oil over medium warmth. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes till the greens start to melt. Add the minced garlic and cook dinner for an extra minute.
3. Add Ham Hock and Beans:
   • Place the ham hock within the pot with the sautéed greens. Pour within the drained navy beans.
4. Pour in Broth and Seasonings:
   • Add the rooster or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot. Stir to mix. You’ll be able to season with salt and pepper at this level, however go straightforward on the salt because the ham hock will add saltiness.
5. Simmer:
   • Carry the soup to a boil, then scale back the warmth to low. Cowl the pot and let it simmer for about 2 to 2.5 hours or till the beans are tender and the meat on the ham hock is falling off the bone. Stir sometimes.
6. Take away Ham Hock:
   • Rigorously take away the ham hock from the pot. Enable it to chill barely. As soon as it is cool sufficient to deal with, shred the meat and discard any bone, fats, or pores and skin. Return the shredded ham to the pot.
7. Regulate Seasonings:
   • Style the soup and modify the seasonings, including extra salt and pepper if wanted. Take away the bay leaf.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the Bean and Ham Hock Soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped contemporary parsley if desired. Serve sizzling with crusty bread.

This soup is wealthy, hearty, and makes a comforting meal, particularly on a cold day. Take pleasure in!